A Democratic Theory of Truth

By: Linda M. Zerilli

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Synopsis: A critique of the concept of truth presupposed by the post-truth debate—and a bold new vision for a more pluralistic citizenry. We say that we live in a “post-truth” era because disinformation threatens our confidence in the existence of a shared public world. Affirming objective truth may, therefore, seem necessary to save democracy. According to political theorist Linda M. G. Zerilli, such affirmation can stifle political debate and silence dissent. In fact, Zerilli argues that the unqualified insistence on objective truth is as dangerous for democracy as denying it. Drawing on Arendt, Foucault, and Wittgenstein, A Democratic Theory of Truth challenges the concept of truth presupposed by the post-truth debate. It argues that we, the people, have an essential role in discovering and evaluating any truth relevant to the political realm. The result is a striking defense of plurality, dissent, and opinion in contemporary democratic societies.

Book Quality:: Publisher Quality
ISBN-13:: 9780226839042
Related ISBNs:: 9780226839028
Publisher:: University of Chicago Press
Date of Addition:: 04/25/25
Copyrighted By:: The University of Chicago
Adult content:: No
Language:: English
Has Image Descriptions:: No
Categories:: Nonfiction, Social Studies, Philosophy, Politics and Government
Submitted By:: Bookshare Staff
Usage Restrictions:: This is a copyrighted book.